From Introvert to Influencer: Shova Gyawali's Journey to Leadership

            My leadership style is one of perseverance and self-reliance. I have learned to make decisions on my own when there is no one else to back me and I remain committed to my plans, even when others try to undermine them. It is about staying strong, being adaptable and continuously pushing forward despite the obstacles. For women leaders, standing up for ourselves and our vision requires not only skill but resilience, determination and the courage to break through the barriers that still exist”

Shova Gyawali currently serves as the President of the Federation of Woman Entrepreneurs Associations of Nepal (FWEAN) and is the Immediate Past President of the Nepal Philippines Chamber of Commerce and Industry. A seasoned businesswoman, she also handles Nepal’s sole public media outlet, Nepal Republic Media. A woman standing tall to the demands of the business world, Gyawali completed her education after marriage. She is deeply influenced by her mother who always encouraged her to find her individual identity and purpose in life. She strongly believes in the power of information, preparation and continuous learning especially in her role as a leader guiding FWEAN towards greater impact in building an entrepreneurial ecosystem for women. 

In this issue of Business 360, we spoke to Gyawali about what leadership means to her. Excerpts:

How do you define leadership?

Leadership, to me, is not just about the individual in charge. It is about having a clear mission and vision, and the ability to effectively communicate and transfer those ideals to others. A true leader ensures that the values, strategies and goals they establish continue to thrive even after they have moved on. Leadership isn’t about short-term success; it is about laying the groundwork for sustainability. I firmly believe that when I take on a leadership role to develop a sector, my responsibility does not end when I step down. I prioritise ensuring that the systems and structures I put in place will endure for generations, even hundred years down the line. This, to me, is the true essence of leadership creating lasting impact and empowering future leaders to carry the torch forward.

Is leadership ‘inborn’ or ‘acquired’?

Leadership, in some cases, may stem from family background or heredity. Certain individuals might feel a natural sense of confidence or capability, traits that can indeed be inborn. However, I firmly believe that the majority of leadership qualities are acquired over time. As people navigate their own paths shaped by their environment, education, upbringing and the situations they encounter they develop the skills and mindset necessary for leadership. It is through experience, learning and growth that true leaders emerge. While a natural inclination can give someone a head start, it is the challenges they face, the decisions they make, and the way they adapt to changing circumstances that ultimately mould them into effective leaders. Leadership is a journey, not just a trait you are born with.

One incident that tested your leadership ability and how did you handle it?

One incident that truly tested my leadership was when I found myself in a position where my vision seemed impossible to others. It reminded me of Lee Kuan Yew who despite being teased by his peers for having lofty dreams for Singapore, continued to plan and believe in his vision. Leaders often have this unique ability to see the potential in what others consider impossible. However, they may struggle to articulate how they plan to achieve it, which can lead to feelings of isolation.

As a leader, you sometimes have to walk a lonely path, especially when others don’t yet understand your vision. You can see the change you want to create, but it is challenging to make others see it too. This is a common situation in leadership knowing where you want to go but finding it difficult to bring others on board. But when you stay the course and eventually prove your ideas, that’s when people whether it’s your peers, family, or even the world begin to understand and respect your vision.

Leadership often requires the courage to forge ahead alone, and the ability to prove yourself at every step. Only then do people acknowledge that you were right all along.

When should a leader pass on the baton?

In any organisation or political sector, it is important for a leader to recognise when it is time to pass on the baton. Leadership should never be about holding onto one position indefinitely. A true leader knows the value of self-improvement and constant growth. If you come up with a new idea today, tomorrow you should be building on it, continuously evolving. Staying in one leadership role for too long beyond one or two years can prevent this growth and deny others the opportunity to develop their skills.

A leader’s responsibility is not only to enhance one area or aspect of an organisation, but also to impart their knowledge and experiences to their team. By teaching and mentoring others, a leader helps cultivate future leaders. Passing on the baton is crucial as it allows for personal upskilling while giving others the chance to step up and demonstrate their abilities. A leader should aim to drive broad, lasting changes and focus on their own development, ensuring that the organisation continues to thrive through the contributions of new leaders.

How can one influence people?

To win over or influence people, a leader must effectively communicate their work, leadership mission and the positive outcomes they have achieved. It is important to highlight the benefits, values and norms that guide their decisions, and clearly define what the future could look like under their leadership. By doing so, the leader demonstrates both vision and capability, helping others see the value in their initiatives. When people hear this, they often feel inspired, recognising the leader’s strong initiative and ability to execute, and they become more inclined to get involved.

Influencing people is also about giving time and support. It does not require an overwhelming amount of effort; with consistent engagement, others will naturally start to understand and align with your leadership. I have learned this through experience; once you start, you gradually learn how to handle various challenges, and as a leader, it is crucial to reassure people that you will always support them. Leaders should inspire through encouragement and show that, with time, everyone can contribute and grow.

How can a leader prepare for the unknown?

A leader can never assume they know everything, even when in a position of authority. To prepare for the unknown, a leader must constantly seek knowledge, take every opportunity to study, and critically assess their actions and direction. It is essential to stay informed about what is happening, both within their organisation and in the wider world. Confidence in oneself, belief in one’s ideas, and trust in the hard work put in are key elements in navigating uncertain situations.

A clear vision and mission are also crucial for preparedness. When a leader is grounded in these, they are better equipped to handle unexpected challenges. It is not about having all the answers beforehand but about building a strong foundation of knowledge, flexibility and confidence to adapt.

A well-prepared leader is one who has taken the time to reflect, learn and strengthen their resolve, which ultimately allows them to confront any unknown circumstances with resilience and clarity. Furthermore, being adaptable and open to new perspectives enhance their ability to turn unforeseen challenges into opportunities for growth.

What leadership style do you follow?

The leadership style I follow is shaped by the unique challenges women in leadership face, especially in Nepal. Compared to Europe, America, or even India, women here still encounter significant barriers. We often lack the exposure, education and opportunities needed to fully thrive in leadership roles. Everyone comes from different backgrounds and because of these societal limitations, it can be incredibly difficult to make others understand and accept our leadership.

In many cases, women leaders are not given the voice or platform they deserve. We have to overcome more obstacles to prove ourselves, and this can be disheartening. Women leaders often have only a short time maybe one or two years to implement their plans, and instead of being supported, they face resistance, often being sidelined into endless discussions that prevent them from executing their vision. It is frustrating because women in leadership are capable, they know how to lead, but they are not always given the support they need.

My leadership style, therefore, is one of perseverance and self-reliance. I have learned to make decisions on my own when there is no one else to back me and I remain committed to my plans, even when others try to undermine them. It is about staying strong, being adaptable and continuously pushing forward despite the obstacles. For women leaders, standing up for ourselves and our vision requires not only skill but resilience, determination, and the courage to break through the barriers that still exist.

What is your leadership mantra?

My leadership mantra is rooted in positivity and empowerment. I believe that a leader should not only dream big but also possess the ability to transform those dreams into reality. Confidence in oneself is essential; leaders must believe in their vision and capabilities. Continuous education and personal growth are crucial as well; leaders should always strive to learn and improve.

Understanding the dynamics of the group they lead is equally important. A leader cannot simply assert authority by saying, “I am the king” or “I am the leader.” Instead, they must engage with their team, motivating and inspiring them to work together toward common goals. Building a strong, positive relationship with followers fosters a sense of community and collaboration. By focusing on positivity and encouraging those around them, leaders can create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. Ultimately, effective leadership is about uplifting others and guiding them toward success alongside you.

Is there a leader that you look up to and why?

When I think about an ideal leader, I envision someone who embodies positivity, possesses clear ideas, and has a strong mission and vision. A prime example of this is Lee Kuan Yew, who transformed Singapore into the thriving nation it is today. I aspire to see Nepal reach similar heights, regardless of who leads. An ideal leader should have the remarkable ability to turn challenges into opportunities, much like Lee Kuan Yew did.

In life, nothing is impossible; success requires hard work and determination. Many people, particularly young people, often feel a sense of urgency to achieve everything by their twenties, fearing that a few extra years in education or delayed career starts diminish their worth. Age is merely a number; what matters is having a dream, mission, vision and the capacity to pursue them.

I observe that many women in Nepal feel constrained by societal expectations, believing that marriage and motherhood mark the end of their aspirations. However, it is never too late to stand up for oneself, even after raising children. Every woman, whether a housewife or an entrepreneur, has the potential to achieve greatness.

A personal experience highlights this journey for me. About 10 to 15 years ago, while on a long drive in Australia, I overheard tourists discussing Nepal’s landmarks like Namche and Tilicho with such fondness. I felt embarrassed that, as a native of Kathmandu, I knew so little about my own country. It was a humbling moment, and at 28 or 29, I made a commitment to explore Nepal more thoroughly. Since then, I have trekked to Tilicho, Mardi, Everest Base Camp, Annapurna Base Camp and Langtang. This experience sparked my passion for writing as well.

Through this journey, I have realised that time should not be a limiting factor and age should not deter you from pursuing your goals. You can decide when to start your journey but it is essential to take that first step and follow through.

How important is a team for a leader?

A team is incredibly important for a leader. When someone achieves something significant, they naturally seek appreciation and recognition for their efforts. When a leader works hard for their team, receiving gratitude in return can greatly enhance their motivation and encouragement. Everyone craves this acknowledgment, as it fosters a positive environment where all contributions are valued.

A leader acts as a guardian, tirelessly working and striving for the benefit of others. However, leaders are human too; they can feel overwhelmed and doubt their ability to continue. This is where a strong team plays a crucial role. A supportive team helps to alleviate the pressure a leader may feel, reminding them that they are not alone in their journey. The reassurance that ‘we have your back’ allows leaders to focus on their vision and run confidently towards their goals. A cohesive team not only boosts morale but also enhances overall effectiveness, creating a collaborative atmosphere that propels everyone toward success.

How do you view leadership in the present and future generations? What advice would you give to young emerging leaders?

Leadership in the present and future generations is crucial, especially as many youths are leaving Nepal for skills and education. While some might say that ‘Nepal has nothing’ or that ‘not even one system is working right’, I firmly believe that this country belongs to all of us. An individual leader cannot single-handedly transform Nepal into a developed nation like America; it requires collective effort. Each young person has a role to play in shaping the future of our country.

Just as a mother nurtures her crying baby, policymakers need to listen to the needs of the people. When we advocate for a conducive business environment or proper loan plans, we must communicate our requirements clearly. We are the players on this field and it is essential to express what we need to move forward.

Sadness and struggle often stem from our mindset. Instead of viewing challenges as insurmountable obstacles, we should embrace motivation and take on leadership roles to advance our vision. My advice to both current and future leaders is to dream big, as time is limited. Learn to manage your time effectively, develop better skills and academic qualifications, and strive to create your own identity. Leadership is not restricted to traditional paths like becoming a doctor or an engineer; you can excel as a singer, dancer, athlete, or in any field that resonates with you.

Take, for example, Palesha Goverdhan, who won at the Paralympics and brought recognition to herself and our country on the global stage. The society we live in allows for diverse paths, so don’t hesitate to take on leadership positions, dream boldly and discover your identity. In Nepal, pursuing leadership is often easier than in many other countries. With the advancement of IT, a wealth of knowledge is readily available, enabling you to research, learn and upgrade yourself effectively.

While you work towards building your identity abroad, remember that there is so much you can accomplish right here in Nepal. You can groom yourself and make significant contributions to our nation. Always carry the mantra, ‘I am me, and I am I’ a powerful affirmation that can only truly be felt in Nepal.

Have you faced any failure and what did you learn from it?

Since childhood, I was an introvert. I always had big dreams. I wanted to be a leader, and I felt there was something special in me, but I struggled to take the first step. There was a time when I had to give a speech on a simple topic. As I stood on stage, surrounded by cameras, I froze. Not a single word came out. It was a moment of complete failure. However, that experience didn’t defeat me; instead, it motivated me to grow.

Today, I can’t stop talking. I have moved far beyond that stage of nervousness, transforming it into a strength. I worked hard on myself, pushing through my limitations, and my experiences helped shape the person I am today. Now, I am confident and vocal, and I have learned that failures are stepping stones to success. They teach us resilience and provide the opportunity for self-improvement. That is why I now share my knowledge freely with others to help them overcome their challenges, just as I overcame mine.

What aspects of your personality have helped you to serve various roles in the past?

Many people describe me as someone who exudes positivity. I carry this positive energy with me in everything I do. I have never had the mindset of ‘I can’t do this’ or ‘This isn’t possible for me’. Instead, I always try, no matter how challenging the task may seem.

For example, when I was studying at Shankar Dev Campus, I used to drive a car. While I could drive well, I wasn’t very confident when it came to reversing. Yet, at home, I would always flaunt how well I could drive. In reality, I would often ask someone else to back the car for me, but over time, I worked on it and improved. This story reflects my determination. Once I set my mind on something, I push myself to achieve it.

I believe that my strong desire to learn and grow, combined with my unwavering positivity, has been the foundation that has enabled me to take on and succeed in the various roles I have held. It is this mindset that helps me continue to evolve and serve in leadership capacities.